SAFE LIFTING OF NON—CARGO LOADS

Lifting heavy items is quite complicated and sometimes hazardous task even when carried out on land. On board vessels, taking into account added difficulties of space being limited, it is important that all precautions are taken in order to ensure the safety of personnel engaged in lifting activities. Though most lifting operations are done in ports, in addition to the above it is also necessary to make sure that the ship-to-ship transfers are carried out safety.

All persons operating lifting equipment shall possess thorough knowledge and understanding of the equipment in use and be aware of the technical limitations imposed on the machinery. The main intention of the author of the present guidebook is to show the correct procedures established to ensure the safest use of the lifting appliances on board ships, their maintenance and storage.

The booklet can be used for self-study or as part of the training program for crew members, who are all required to be thoroughly familiar with its content since the training and practical experience will eventually bring about required knowledge of planning and executing safe and efficient lifting operations with no hazard to the people engaged.